How to Style a Couch with Cushions and Throws

Styling a couch might seem like a small detail in your home, but it can make a world of difference to your living space. Whether you’re creating a cosy corner for your evening unwind or a stylish setup for entertaining guests, cushions and throws are your best friend. With our easy step-by-step guide, you’ll have your sofa looking magazine-worthy in no time.

Start With the Basics

Before you even think about colours or patterns, start with the most important element – your sofa. The size and style of your couch should guide your cushion choices.

For example, a larger, more traditional sofa can carry a plush, layered look with five or more cushions, including different sizes and textures. On the other hand, if you’re working with a smaller sofa, a minimalistic approach with just a few carefully selected cushions will keep the look balanced and elegant.

If you’re unsure about how many cushions to use based on your sofa size, don’t worry – we’ve got you. Head over to our dedicated blog post where we break down how to style each size of sofa, from cosy two-seaters to sprawling corner couches.

Decide on Your Style: Plush or Minimal?

Once you know your sofa’s proportions, it’s time to choose your styling direction. Ask yourself: do I want a plush, layered look or a clean, minimalistic finish?

A plush style usually involves more cushions in various sizes – think large 53×53 cushions at the back, layered with 45x45s and perhaps a lumbar or rectangle cushion at the front. This look is luxurious and inviting, ideal for larger spaces or if you love a cosy, textural feel.

Prefer minimalism? Stick to a simpler formula. A pair of matching cushions with a subtle throw neatly folded at one end gives a modern, fuss-free vibe.

Consider Your Sofa Colour

The colour of your couch will also play a key role in how you style it. You’ll want to decide whether you’re after a tonal finish or a contrasting look.

If you have a neutral-toned sofa like beige, grey, or cream, you can keep things calm and cohesive by sticking to a tonal palette – think soft greys, taupes, or off-whites. This will give you a serene, sophisticated look that works beautifully in modern country interiors.

Alternatively, if you want to add some personality, go bold with contrasting colours. For instance, a beige sofa pops beautifully with olive greens and soft pinks. This approach adds depth and interest without overwhelming the space. Our favourite combo? Olive, blush and natural linen – soft but full of character.

Not Sure Where to Start? Try a Cushion Set

Pulling together the perfect combination of cushions and throws can be time-consuming (and sometimes overwhelming). That’s why we offer pre-made cushion sets, carefully curated by our in-house stylists. Each cushion combination has been designed to complement a range of sofas and interior styles, ensuring a cohesive, professional finish without the guesswork.

All you need to do is pick your preferred colour scheme, and the hard work has been done for you. Our cushion sets take the pressure off – no need to worry about matching tones or mixing patterns.

Don’t Forget the Throw

Once your cushions are in place, the final piece of the puzzle is your throw. A tonal throw brings everything together and adds that extra layer of texture and warmth. Choose a throw that ties in with at least one of your cushion colours for a coordinated finish. Drape it loosely over the arm or back of your sofa for a relaxed look, or fold it neatly for a more tailored effect.

Top Styling Tips to Keep in Mind

• Odd numbers work best: When arranging cushions, odd numbers (three, five, seven) tend to look more natural and visually pleasing.
• Play with texture: Mix cottons, linens, and bouclé fabrics for depth and interest.
• Layer sizes: Start with larger cushions at the back and layer smaller ones in front for a professional finish.
• Repeat colours: Tie in elements from elsewhere in your room – like wall art or rugs – to keep the look cohesive.

Final Thoughts

How to style a couch with cushions and throws has hopefully been made easy with this step by step guide. By considering your sofa size, deciding on your style, and choosing the right colours and textures, you can transform your living space with just a few simple additions. And if you need a little help along the way, our curated cushion sets and easy styling guides are always here to inspire.

Ready to give your sofa a refresh? Browse our collection of cushion sets and tonal throws to get started – and don’t forget to check out our blog for tips on how to style each size sofa.